Tired of the same old meatloaf? This recipe elevates the classic comfort food with the rich, savory depth of French onion soup. It's surprisingly easy to make, bursting with flavor, and perfect for a cozy weeknight dinner or a special occasion. Get ready to impress your family and friends with this delicious twist on a timeless favorite! This healthy meal is also a quick dinner idea, perfect for busy weeknights. Homemade cooking doesn't get much easier than this!
Ingredients:
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For the Meatloaf:
- 1 large onion, thinly sliced
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 1 pound ground beef (80/20 blend recommended)
- 1/2 pound ground pork
- 1 cup French onion soup mix (low sodium preferred)
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
- 1 large egg, lightly beaten
- 1/4 cup milk
- 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
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For the Topping (Optional):
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 tablespoons butter, melted
Instructions:
Step 1: Caramelize the Onions
In a large skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the sliced onions and cook, stirring occasionally, until deeply caramelized, about 20-25 minutes. This step is crucial for developing the rich flavor of the French onion soup. Be patient; the longer they cook, the better they'll taste!
Step 2: Prepare the Meatloaf Mixture
In a large bowl, combine the ground beef, ground pork, caramelized onions, French onion soup mix, breadcrumbs, egg, milk, Worcestershire sauce, thyme, pepper, and Parmesan cheese. Gently mix until just combined – avoid overmixing, as this can result in a tough meatloaf.
Step 3: Shape and Bake
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Shape the meatloaf mixture into a loaf and place it in a baking dish. If desired, brush the top with melted butter and sprinkle with extra Parmesan cheese.
Step 4: Bake to Perfection
Bake for 50-60 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 160°F (71°C). Use a meat thermometer to ensure it's cooked through. Let it rest for 10 minutes before slicing and serving.
Tips and Variations:
- For a richer flavor: Add a splash of red wine to the meatloaf mixture.
- Spice it up: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the meatloaf mixture for a little heat.
- Make it vegetarian: Substitute the ground meats with a mixture of mushrooms, lentils, and vegetables. Adjust seasonings as needed.
- Add vegetables: Incorporate finely chopped carrots, celery, or bell peppers into the meatloaf mixture.
- Serve it up: This delicious dish pairs perfectly with mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, or a simple green salad.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
- Calories: Approximately 350-400
- Protein: 25-30g
- Fat: 20-25g
- Carbohydrates: 10-15g
This French Onion Soup Meatloaf recipe is a simple yet impressive meal that is sure to become a family favorite. The combination of savory onions and flavorful meat creates a delicious dish that everyone will enjoy. It's one of the best recipes for a comforting and satisfying dinner. Enjoy!